Act Like a GRRRL stages young women's works

Participants in Act Like a GRRRL go page to stage, writing then performing a work.

For the past decade, Act Like a GRRRL has been helping area teens develop stories, dances and songs - in addition to themselves.

Founded by Vali Forrister, Act Like a GRRRL is a four-week autobiographical writing program for those ages 12-18, working "page to stage" to articulate personal experiences and beliefs. In addition to the opportunity to develop multicultural relationships, find common ground and learn from professional female mentors in a variety of fields, the experience also includes the creation of a public performance.

This year is no different: Act Like a GRRRL 2013 began June 3, and public performances are at 7:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday at BelmontUniversity's Black Box Theater, 1575 Compton Ave. Tickets are available through http://alag2013.eventbrite.com for $15; $10 students and seniors (be prepared to show ID).

Alongside the program for teens, Act Like a GRRRL has expanded to include work with those incarcerated at the Tennessee Prison for Women, and a group of GRRRLs took part in an international festival in Costa Rica aimed at empowering women and girls worldwide. Details: www.actorsbridge.org/act-like-a-grrrl.aspx.